5 Best Things to Do in Chikmagalur

The highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri stands tall at 1,930 meters. It’s a must-do trek for adventure enthusiasts and naturalists as it gives them a chance to get mesmerized by the views of the Western Ghats and feel accomplished after reaching the summit.

Trek Details

• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Distance: Approximately 4 km one-way
• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Starting Point: Sarpadhari, about 15 km from Chikmagalur town

What to Expect

The journey commences with an abrupt climb through thick woods and rocky landscapes. Following your footsteps up will lead you through lush grasslands which provide panoramic views of hillsides and valleys stretching out on all sides. A small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on top adds spiritual aspects to this adventurous endeavor.

Tips

• Put on strong shoes meant for hiking as well as carry enough food materials along with drinking water.
• Start early in order not to be scorched down during intense heat hours.
• Be ready for abrupt climate changes; bring light jackets along.

Explore the Coffee Plantations

When one talks of Chikmagalur, coffee comes into mind. The region has some of the oldest coffee plantations dating back from the 18th century that give visitors an immersive experience. Whenever one visits these farms they always learn something new about history, farming techniques used here, or even how this crop is processed before being presented as a finished product which many partake in unawarely.

Plantation Tours

Furthermore, many estates allow visitors to have guided trips that educate them on all steps of coffee making from its raw stage up to the time it is served as a cup. Additionally, you can choose to sample different types of coffee and buy some freshly brewed ones that are ground for you.

Recommended Plantations

• Malanadu Coffee Estate: Quality organic coffee is produced here.
• The Serai Chikmagalur: For luxury plantation stays and tours.
• Muthodi Coffee Estate: Visitors can learn about sustainable coffee farming in this establishment.

Tips

• Put on comfortable clothes and solid shoes because it will be a walk on rough ground.
• Also, make sure you taste various kinds of coffee blends during your stay there.

Visit the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Wildlife aficionados need not look further than Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary situated around 38 km away from Chikmagalur. Covering about 490 square kilometers, this sanctuary is home to numerous plants and animals such as tigers, leopards, elephants, and various bird species.

Safari Experience

This place offers both jeep safaris and boat safaris hence taking advantage of the vast biodiversity in this area. The jeep safari’s major characteristic is spotting large cats while boat safaris offer calmness on the Bhadra River backwaters.

Best Time to Visit

• Best Season: October to May
• Safari Timings: Morning (6:30 AM - 8:30 AM) and Evening (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM)

Tips

• Avoid last-minute inconveniences by booking your safari in advance.
• Remember to carry binoculars and a camera to help you spot wildlife and take memorable pictures.
• Blend with the surroundings by wearing clothes of neutral color.

Relax at the Hebbe Falls

One of the most beautiful waterfalls found in Karnataka, which is situated in Kemmangundi hill station about 65 km from Chikmagalur, is Hebbe Falls. The waterfalls are divided into two stages Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls) falling from a height of 551 ft.

To reach this paradise on earth, an expedition in a jeep followed by a short trek through dense forests becomes necessary. This travel itself is full of fun with beautiful scenic views and spotting an animal or two along the way.

Activities

• Swimming: A plunge into the pool found at the bottom gives you that refreshing feeling.
• Photography: The picturesque setting offers excellent picture-taking opportunities for photography buffs.
• Picnicking: The waterfall’s vicinity is ideal for leisure picnics and day outs with family, friends, or even colleagues as some corporates do have such programs once in a while.

Tips

• Have waterproof shoes on hand if you intend to swim; also keep an extra change of clothes handy.
• Be careful while moving around wet rocks near the waterfall area as they might be slippery thus causing accidents or injury if one is not cautious enough.
• Arrive early morning to beat the crowd especially people who come later after attending church services during religious holidays like Sundays when most Christians worship before others start their day off with parties!

Explore Historical Belur & Halebidu Temples

A visit to Chikmagalur would be incomplete without touring the Belur and Halebidu historical temples which are located about 25 km away from Chikmagalur respectively. These wonderful temples were built during the Hoysala dynasty and are known for their intricate carvings and architectural splendor.

Belur - Chennakesava Temple

One of the masterpieces of Hoysala architecture, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Belur is Chennakesava temple. Intricate sculptures on the facade depicting scenes from Hindu mythological stories make it appealing to the eyes.

Halebidu - Hoysaleswara Temple

Hoysaleswara temple at Halebidu too is a great architectural wonder dedicated to lord Shiva. The temple is created with detailed figurines of gods, goddesses, animals, and mythical creatures which exhibit the expertise attained during the period of Hoysalas.

Tips

• Engage a local guide to provide additional information about these temples’ history and architecture.
• Avoid visiting when it’s too hot by going there early morning or late afternoon.
• Do not forget comfortable shoes since you will be walking on stone floors.